In a surprising and unprecedented move, the Supreme Leader of Iran, Ali Khamenei, has called for peaceful and friendly relations with Israel, the arch-enemy of the Islamic Republic. The call, which was made in a televised speech on Friday, has shocked and confused many observers and analysts, who have wondered about the motives and implications of this sudden change of tone.
Khamenei, who has previously described Israel as a “cancerous tumor” and a “fake regime” that must be wiped off the map, has now praised Israel as a “successful and prosperous” country that deserves respect and admiration. He has also expressed his admiration for the Israeli democracy, technology, and culture, and has invited the Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, to visit Tehran for talks and cooperation.
Khamenei has also urged the Islamic countries to follow his example and to establish diplomatic and economic ties with Israel, saying that this would benefit the region and the world. He has also apologized for his past remarks and actions against Israel, and has asked for forgiveness and reconciliation.
The call has been welcomed by Israel, which has expressed its readiness and willingness to engage with Iran and to normalize relations. The Israeli Foreign Ministry has issued a statement, saying that it appreciates Khamenei’s “courageous and visionary” gesture, and that it hopes that this will mark the beginning of a new era of peace and friendship between the two countries.
However, the call has also been met with skepticism and criticism by some of Iran’s allies and enemies, who have questioned the sincerity and credibility of Khamenei’s call. Some have speculated that Khamenei’s call is a ploy to deceive and manipulate Israel and the international community, and to gain concessions and advantages in the ongoing nuclear negotiations. Others have suggested that Khamenei’s call is a sign of weakness and desperation, and that it reflects the internal and external pressures and challenges that Iran is facing.
The call has also caused a lot of controversy and debate among the Iranian public and the media, who have expressed mixed and diverse reactions and opinions. Some have supported and applauded Khamenei’s call, saying that it is a wise and pragmatic move that will improve Iran’s image and position in the world. Others have opposed and condemned Khamenei’s call, saying that it is a betrayal and a humiliation that will undermine Iran’s dignity and sovereignty.
The call has also sparked a lot of speculation and curiosity about the future of the relations between Iran and Israel, and the impact of this call on the regional and global dynamics and developments.